Sony is sending notifications to PS5 players in the US, encouraging them to sell their unused consoles for cash through a trade-in program, putting these idle consoles back into circulation. This recycling program is operated by the third-party company Back Market. Depending on the overall condition of the equipment, a base model PS5 console with two DualSense controllers can fetch up to $400.
Previously, Microsoft also sent similar emails to Xbox Series X|S users, encouraging them to dispose of consoles they no longer play.
Why are Sony and Microsoft doing this?
The current situation is quite unusual, as prices for new consoles have risen significantly. Additionally, memory shortages have noticeably reduced inventory. Nowadays, the PS5 Pro is quite hard to buy, although the standard PS5 might still be relatively easy to find.
But the more direct reason is that idle consoles don't generate revenue for console manufacturers.
If someone buys a used PS5, they are likely to purchase games like GTA6 through the PS Store or subscribe to PS Plus. These purchases could become revenue for Sony. But if the console sits gathering dust in a storage room, Sony won't earn that money.
It's indeed rare for console manufacturers to actively promote trade-in recycling programs. Of course, what they hope to see most is players using their consoles daily and continuing to spend within the corresponding ecosystem.
But if players are no longer using their consoles, these companies clearly want them to sell the devices so others can take over. This way, new players have the chance to buy a console and may continue spending on games and subscription services later on.
